Rules Analysis
Players should be mindful of the fact that they are acting as referees in any arbitration between teams. Players must:
explain their viewpoint clearly and briefly;
What:
It is an essential component of good spirit that a player must be prepared, if asked, to explain concisely the objective evidence that led to making a call, or contesting a call.
Example:
After making a travel call, if asked, the defender might explain “I saw you lift your pivot foot while the disc was still in your hand.”
Why:
The objective evidence is evidence that can be tested for validity. It makes it clear that the call was not based on emotion or what the player wanted or expected to happen, but what they actually observed.If a player is not reasonably certain of the objective evidence, they should not make a call.
Extra:
Players should be aware and understanding of the language limitations accompanying international play, however opponents should still be able to communicate, even through gestures, what they saw. Team captains and team mates should get involved if they think their team’s player is wrong or does not behave correctly.
use respectful words and body language with consideration of potential cultural differences;
only make a call where a breach is significant enough to make a difference to the outcome of the action.
What:
Players should allow for a reasonable degree of tolerance for minor breaches involving small discrepancies in distance and time.
Example:
If the thrower established a pivot one centimetre away from the correct pivot location then a travel infraction should not be called.